Top places to visit

Top places to visit

Mon, the land of the Konyak Nagas, is one of Nagaland’s most culturally immersive destinations. Known for its head-hunting history, tribal tattoos, and unique traditions, Mon offers a raw and authentic experience of Naga heritage.

Here are the must-visit places in Mon:

1. Longwa Village  (Indo-Myanmar Border Experience)

• One of the most famous villages in Nagaland, where the Indo-Myanmar border runs through the Angh’s (chief’s) house.
• Meet the Angh (King of Longwa), whose house is half in India and half in Myanmar.
• See former headhunters with facial tattoos, symbols of their warrior past.

 Distance: 42 km from Mon Town
 Entry Fee: Free

2. Shangnyu Village  (Ancient Monoliths & Tribal Art)

• Home to massive wooden monoliths, believed to be built by supernatural beings.
• Visit the Angh’s house, a 200-year-old traditional Konyak structure.
• The village is rich in wood carvings, tribal paintings, and folklore.

 Distance: 30 km from Mon Town
 Entry Fee: Free

3. Veda Peak  (Highest Point in Mon – Trekking & Scenic Views)

• The highest point in Mon District, offering breathtaking views of Nagaland & Myanmar.
• On clear days, you can see the Brahmaputra River in Assam.
• Best for trekking, sunrise/sunset photography, and nature lovers.

 Distance: 70 km from Mon Town
 Entry Fee: Free

4. Chenmoho Village  (Former Headhunter’s Village)

• One of the last remaining headhunter villages, where you can see warrior trophies and skull artifacts.
• The villagers proudly showcase their tribal tattoos and handmade weapons.
• Experience traditional war dances and folk songs of the Konyak Nagas.

 Distance: 43 km from Mon Town
 Entry Fee: Free

5. Chui Village  (Traditional Konyak Warrior Village)

• Home to the original Konyak warriors, where elderly men still wear traditional headgear and facial tattoos.
• Visit the Angh’s house, built in traditional longhouse style with wood carvings.
• Witness wood carvings of battle scenes, tribal deities, and hunting traditions.

 Distance: 8 km from Mon Town
 Entry Fee: Free

6. Hongphoi Village  (Meet the Last Headhunters of Nagaland)

• One of the few places where you can still meet elderly Konyak warriors.
• The village follows strict tribal customs, including the use of war relics and wooden masks.
• Experience traditional Konyak music, dance, and storytelling.

 Distance: 20 km from Mon Town
 Entry Fee: Free

7. Wakching Village  (Experience Konyak Tribal Festivals)

• Best place to experience the Aoling Festival (April), the biggest Konyak celebration.
• Witness Konyak war dances, folk music, and fire performances.
• Home to skilled blacksmiths and craftsmen who make tribal weapons and jewelry.

 Distance: 36 km from Mon Town
 Entry Fee: Free

8. Dikhu River  (Scenic Picnic & Fishing Spot)

• A beautiful river perfect for picnics, fishing, and relaxation.
• Offers serene views and a peaceful escape from Mon Town.
• Spot migratory birds and rare river fish in the area.

 Distance: 25 km from Mon Town
 Entry Fee: Free

9. Mon Town Market  (Best for Local Shopping & Handicrafts)

• Explore the bustling market selling:
  ✅ Handwoven Konyak shawls & textiles
  ✅ Handmade tribal jewelry, wood carvings & war artifacts
  ✅ Local spices, smoked meats & herbal medicines

 Location: Mon Town Center
 Entry Fee: Free

10. Aoling Festival  (Best Cultural Experience – April)

• The biggest festival of the Konyak Nagas, marking the arrival of spring.
• Watch war dances, traditional fire rituals, and folk performances.
• Try authentic Konyak cuisine, including smoked meats, rice beer, and wild honey.

 Best Place to Experience: Wakching Village, Mon Town, Longwa
 Best Time to Visit: April (during Aoling Festival)

 Best Day Trip Recommendations

 For Cultural & Tribal Experiences:  Longwa, Shangnyu, Chui, Hongphoi
 For Adventure & Trekking:  Veda Peak, Dikhu River
 For Handicrafts & Shopping:  Mon Market, Wakching Village Craft Shops
 For Festivals:  Aoling Festival (April), Warrior Dance Events

 Summary: Best Places by Interest

✔ For Cultural Immersion → Longwa, Chui, Chenmoho, Shangnyu
✔ For Adventure & Trekking → Veda Peak, Dikhu River
✔ For Handicrafts & Shopping → Mon Market, Wakching Craft Shops
✔ For Festivals & Traditions → Aoling Festival, Wakching Village

Mon is Nagaland’s most culturally intense and historically rich destination, offering a glimpse into the fascinating world of the Konyak warriors. Whether you’re exploring headhunter villages, trekking to scenic peaks, or witnessing tribal festivals, Mon promises an unforgettable experience!